Letters of Accommodation
Our students then have the option to request those accommodations from their professors as needed. In collaboration with an Accessibility Consultant, and with sufficient documentation, the LOA is prepared for students with disabilities, either temporary or permanent, for each term that they are attending classes.
What is a Letter of Accommodation (LOA)?
- The Letter of Accommodation will contain exceptions to standard academic processes that help students overcome the unique limitations caused by their disability.
- Exceptions are chosen by the Accessibility Consultant to best meet your individual needs, and may include things like getting extra time on tests, extensions on assignments, access to notetaking supports, etc.
- The LOA outlines the accommodations you require. It does not disclose your disability.
- Once informed by a LOA, faculty and staff must grant your recommended Academic Accommodations unless they interfere with the essential requirements of the course.
New Letters of Accommodation are required every term.
The LOA is renewed at the beginning of every term of your program as long as the LOA is permanent. If there is a change in your condition or accommodation needs, reach out to your Accessibility Consultant to start a discussion about reviewing your LOA.
How is a LOA distributed?
A copy of your Letter of Accommodation will be emailed to you for your reference. There are 2 options to have your letter distributed:
I want HWAS to distribute it for me.
If you would like us to distribute your Letter of Accommodation, your Accessibility Consultant will review the process and ask you to sign a Release of Information to Staff, Faculty & Administration form.
- This form gives us permission to send your LOA to your Associate Dean, Academic Advisor, current teachers on your timetable, and appropriate support staff in the Test Centre, Peer Tutoring, etc.
- You’ll be responsible for providing the LOA to anyone else you deem appropriate to receive this information in order to help you with your success at Niagara College (ex. a placement supervisor or co-op employer).
I want to distribute it myself.
If you choose not to sign the Release of Information form, you’ll be responsible for ensuring that your Associate Dean, Academic Advisor, teachers, and any appropriate support staff in the Test Centre, Peer Tutoring, etc., receive your Letter to ensure that you receive assistance while attending Niagara College.
To distribute your LOA:
- In Person: Print paper copies of your Letter and distribute them in person.
- By Email: Forward the LOA from your student email to the Faculty or Staff member from whom you require accommodations.
Are you a student or applicant who needs accommodations?
Learn more on the How to Access Accessibility services page.
Are you staff member wondering about accommodations?
Read the Disabilities and Accommodation Types page to learn more about different disabilities and how accommodations can help students succeed.
Are you experiencing a crisis?
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